Canadians over 65 are less active now than at the end of the eighties. The 1995 Physical Activity Monitor, conducted by the Canadian Fitness and Lifestyle Research Institute, found a reduction in the activity levels of both older men and women since 1988.

Older women are the least active of all age and sex groups. In fact, middle-aged men and women, along with men over 65, are twice as likely to be active as older women. Men and women in their early twenties are three times more likely to be active.

The downward trend for women at retirement age is particularly troubling. After menopause, women face a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. With lower levels of estrogen no longer offering adequate protection, physical activity would be of great benefit in offsetting the effects of these diseases. Also, women may live longer than men but they experience more physical limitations. Physical activity is of paramount importance for maintaining the functional abilities needed to carry out daily tasks.

Encouraging seniors to do the activities they already pursue more often and more regularly is perhaps key to achieving these health benefits. Any of the most popular activities among older Canadians would help:

• walking (85%)
• gardening (68%)
• home exercise (41%)
• swimming (27%)
• social dancing (22%)
• golf (15%)
• bicycling (13%)
• bowling (13%)
• exercise class (9%)

Walking is a key activity among seniors, and it is often recommended as an exercise for people wanting to become more active. Being active is key for maintaining the ability to function independently over 65, so it is never too late to start engaging in regular physical activity.